On the eve of 9-11 under the lighted tribute to those who perished, the light of candles flickered in the night held by supporters of a plan to build a mosque and Islamic community center within two blocks of the world trade center site.

Many in the crowd filling half of two blocks near the site of the proposed mosque held candles and waved American flags.

The controversy surrounding the mosque has vaulted it to a national stage, attracting Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison.

"It's a bigger issue of belonging and inclusion," he said.

They come from across many races, religions and regions.

Lois Baker came from Wisconsin.

"God wants us to respect and honor and give all our fellow citizens dignity and grant them the same freedoms we want for ourselves," she said.

At least six other rallies are being planned on 9-11. Thousands are expected to gather near the World Trade Center site to rally both for and against the proposed mosque. Security will be tight during the September 11th ceremonies.